Economic Impact

NWIW is growing the local economy by adding 1,000 jobs during construction and nearly 700 direct, indirect and induced jobs once the project is complete. Other benefits include spending locally on goods and services, partnering with local schools and community organizations, and contributing millions to local tax revenue – all to help improve quality of life in Cowlitz County and SW Washington. Following are just some of the ways we are investing in our communities:

Family Wage Jobs

With 1,000 jobs during peak construction (2+ years) and more than 200 family-wage jobs during operations, NWIW is rebuilding our country’s manufacturing muscle. We want to bring manufacturing jobs back to Cowlitz County and are absolutely committed to employing local residents to fill these positions.

Vocational Training Program

In addition, we’ve set aside 20 percent of permanent family-wage jobs for people facing barriers to employment. Through a unique partnership with Lower Columbia College, NWIW will provide citizens with barriers to employment opportunities for paid job training and future jobs at our plant. Our special training program ensures that the economic benefits stemming from our facility will reach the broadest population possible. We’re working closely with Lower Columbia College to develop a job alert system and a curriculum of recommended courses so residents can brush up on their skills before we start hiring.

Strong Tax Revenue

NWIW will pay $57.9 million in taxes during construction and $30 million to $40 million in annual taxes during operations. This funding will help state and local authorities create new community facilities, enhance community services and infrastructure, and improve local schools which will further enhance the quality of life for local citizens and their families.

Local Spending

During construction, NWIW will bring nearly $700 million in local spending on labor, goods and services to help area residents and businesses achieve their own economic growth. And once it is operational, our facility will be responsible for paying $21 million in annual salaries, with a significant percent spent at local businesses. This level of local spending grows small businesses, increases land and property values and enhances the overall quality of life for residents.